COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio hockey fans are preparing, much like the National Hockey League, as the outdoor match between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Detroit Red Wings kicks off Saturday evening.

What You Need To Know

The Columbus Blue Jackets take on the Detroit Red Wings Saturday at 6 p.m.

The rink has been designed to pay tribute to Ohio State University and the Blue Jackets

Twenty One Pilots will play during the first intermission

The NHL said tributes to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau are planned

The 2025 Navy Federal Credit Union Stadium Series game marks the first outdoor game for the Blue Jackets, which will begin at 6 p.m. Saturday, March 1.

Ohio will be reflected in the field design, as the NHL said the theme celebrates the game day traditions of both the Blue Jackets and the Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics. The NHL released a rendering of the field which features the Blue Jacket’s Union blue, white and Goal red in a rink decking design inspired by the Ohio State’s Athletic Spirit Mark.

Decals depicting the Buckeye Leaf helmet award, the Blue Jackets Cannon and the NHL Shield are displayed along the side of the field leading to the NHL stage where Columbus-native and Grammy award-winning duo Twenty One Pilots will headline a performance during the first intermission.

Ohio’s O.A.R. will headline a free concert at the NHL Stadium Series Pep Rally in St. John Arena which is open to the public with first-come, first-served seating. This event will begin at 2:30 p.m. with a performance by the Ohio State University Athletic Band and Spirit Team.

The Blue Jackets will stop at the pep rally before a ceremonious walk to the stadium.

Ohio State’s Athletic Band will lead festivities in The Shoe as player introductions occur and will kick off the formal start of the Opening Ceremony with a performance of the U.S. National Anthem.

Ohio State University’s ROTC members will present the colors and raise the nation’s flag before the ceremony concludes with a puck drop and a flyover featuring two F-16s from the 180th Fighter Wing in Toledo and one KC-135 from the 121st Air Refueling Wing in Columbus.

The NHL said tributes to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau are planned throughout the game.

During the second intermission, Ohio State’s National Championship teams will be celebrated, including the College Football Playoff National Champion Ohio State Buckeyes, Spirit Program and 2024 Women’s Hockey

Fans may not bring bags or purses into Ohio Stadium or St. John Arena, except for wallets or wristlets no larger than 5 inches x 8 inches x 1 inch. For more information on child care or medical bags, check the NHL’s Stadium Series Fan Guide.